2019 Umpire: Kevin Bethard

Kevin Bethard

Kevin has been walking on to softball fields for 39 years and the last 28 in Red and Black. He has never been prouder to wear a uniform or do a job day-in and day-out. In 1996, Brenda Paulson gave him and Tom Seddon the chance to umpire in the Women’s Major “A” NIT in Rockford. Since that time, he has done many Divisional and National tournaments, upwards of 60 State tournaments and approximately 7,000 league games. Working in the Joliet and Rockford areas has allowed him to umpire with some of the very best around. Kevin went to 10 National Clinics held in Rockford and late began working as a trainer in clinics all over northern Illinois.

The highlight of his career is receiving this honor of being inducted into the Illinois USSSA Hall of Fame. But the biggest accomplishment for Bethard is to watch umpires he has trained go from nervous rookies and scared of walking on to the field to seasoned veterans who can walk on to the National stage and handle any situation with poise and professionalism.

When asked what it takes to be a successful umpire Kevin responded, “Be a professional. Hold yourself accountable to know the rules, be in a position to make the call and give the rec league team all the effort you give the Majors. You are being paid to do a job. Go out and do it like it is your only job in the world and not just a way to pick up a few extra bucks. Be in control and take pride in what you do.”

Every spring for 39 years, Bethard asked himself one question, “How am I going to improve as an umpire this season?” As a professional, you always need to ask that one question and then go out and answer it on the field of play. Kevin has always walked the walk and for this very reason, he is being honored into the Illinois USSSA Hall of Fame.